Is it better to ask for a letter of rec in person or over email?
Asked by: Mrs. Leora Bailey | Last update: September 10, 2025Score: 4.9/5 (66 votes)
If you can, make your request in person. This will make the request personal, respectful, and responsible. Practice what you're going to say beforehand. The request should be heartfelt, and tell them how you've enjoyed their instruction and guidance, and how you would be honored if they wrote you a letter.
Is it better to ask for a letter of recommendation in person or email?
Ask in person
Though it might be tempting to ask your teacher to write a letter of recommendation for you over email, asking in person is much more respectful and will give you the chance to connect with the teacher more personally.
Is it better to ask for a reference in person or email?
It's better to talk to a reference on a phone or video call than to interview them over email. People will almost always be more forthcoming when speaking than in writing, and it's far easier to ask follow-up questions and have a real conversation on a call.
What is the proper way to ask for a letter of recommendation?
The best way to ask for a letter of recommendation is directly. Tell your potential reference what you are applying for, tell them that you are looking for people to write recommendation letters, and then ask The Question: ``Can you write me a strong letter of recommendation?''
Who is the best person to ask for a letter of recommendation?
The best person to write a letter of recommendation is the professor that knows you the best. That is likely the professor that you interacted with the most in a class in which you excelled. Many premed students spend time in the lab.
Letters of Recommendation: How, Who, and When to Ask for One
Is 2 weeks enough time to ask for a letter of recommendation?
for a reference unless a professor/instructor letter is specifically requested. If you aren't sure, ask an OFSP staff member to help you decide who to ask for a particular recommendation. Start early. Ideally, give the person three to four weeks, but never less than two weeks to complete the recommendation.
Who is it most impressive to get letters of recommendation from?
Junior or senior year teachers are usually the best for writing recommendations, since they are more likely to have taught you in a high-level course, taught you over a few years, and/or know you in different capacities.
Can you ask for a letter of recommendation via email?
If you need to request a letter of recommendation via email, be professional and heartfelt in the ask. Make it clear what you are requesting and give them the option to say yes or no without it being awkward. Let them answer before sending over all the details.
What is a brag sheet for a letter of recommendation?
Brag sheets are a way for you to help your counselor and teachers write letters of recommendation. These forms give them more insight into who you are outside of school and your interests. Fill out these forms, and share them with your counselor and teachers when you ask them for a letter of recommendation!
How long should a letter of recommendation be?
Most recommendations tend to be around 1 to 1.5 single-spaced pages long, although some may be longer if you have a lot to share.
Why is it so hard to ask for a reference?
If you're new to the workforce, you probably haven't had time to establish work relationships that lead to being able to ask for a reference. Or maybe you're new to the country, so your references are hard to contact, either because of a language barrier or time zone difficulties.
Who of the following should you never list as a reference?
Let's start with whom you should not list as a reference. Believe it or not, this list is much longer than that of those you should list. To name a few, you should stay away from including your family, past employers whom you have bad blood with, or employers that you have not worked for in a long time.
Is it okay to email a professor for a letter of recommendation?
Make a formal request of your professor (by email or by appointment), asking if he or she would be willing to write a letter or fill out a form on your behalf. Explain the purpose of the recommendation and why you have chosen the professor. Give the professor time to consider your request.
Is it better to ask for a letter of recommendation in person on Reddit?
If you can ask in person, you should do so. If not, just send a quick email, be polite and direct. A short email is not a rude email.
Should I ask for reference in person or email?
You can ask someone to be your reference by sending them an email, calling them (with their permission), texting them if you have an established rapport (and know it's their preferred communication), or speaking to them in person.
Who should you not ask for a letter of recommendation?
Don't ask a family member or a friend for a recommendation as a college may not take them seriously. You should always follow the guidelines from the colleges you are applying to when choosing who to write your letter of recommendation.
What are three important things to mention in a letter of recommendation?
A recommendation letter should include information on who you are, your connection with the person you are recommending, why they are qualified, and the specific skills they have.
What does a good brag sheet look like?
A brag sheet doesn't need to look like a typical resume. It should include your grade point average (GPA) and any test scores (such as the PSAT, SAT, and ACT). But remember, the main highlight of your brag sheet is to showcase your high school career and personal accomplishments.
What makes a letter of recommendation stand out?
Use concrete examples, not generalizations. Tell stories that illustrate the student's character. If you know what major the student is looking at, you can incorporate details of why that student would be a good fit for that major and career path. Make each letter unique.
How to professionally ask someone for a letter of recommendation?
Ask in person first.
Before you send a formal, written request for a letter of recommendation, speak with each individual in person. Preparing what you'll say ahead of time can help you feel more calm and confident. Explain what you're applying for and why you're asking this person to recommend you.
Can you ask your advisor for a letter of recommendation?
Even if you didn't take a class with your academic advisor or get to know them on a personal level, it's likely that they will be happy to write a letter in support of your application.
Should I waive my right to see letters of recommendation?
Generally speaking, waiving your right to view your letters of recommendation is ideal. While you can retain the right to view them, many admissions officers consider waiving the right as more honest.
Who is the best person to write you a letter of recommendation?
Pro Tip: Ask someone who has known you for a long time or who has seen you work hard at school, a job, or an extra-curricular activity. They'll be able to do a great job sharing why you should be selected for this program.
What are the first words that come to your mind to describe this student?
- A. academic. adaptable. adept. alert. ambitious. ...
- B. beautiful. bold. brave. bright. brilliant. ...
- C. calm. capable. careful. cheerful. ...
- D. daring. decisive. dedicated. determined. ...
- E. eager. empathetic. energetic. enthusiastic. ...
- F. fluent. friendly. fun.
- G. generous. gentle. good. gregarious.
- H. happy. hard-working. helpful. hopeful.
When should you ask for letters of rec?
It is common courtesy to allow recommenders at least 3-4 weeks to prepare and submit their letters. We highly recommend involving them in the early stages of your application process, while you are deciding how to present yourself in the application materials.